Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Food in U.S. City Average
Not Seasonally Adjusted
CPIUFDNS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
340.04
Year-over-Year Change
2.87%
Date Range
4/1/1942 - 7/1/2025
Summary
The Not Seasonally Adjusted Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) measures changes in the prices paid by urban consumers for a representative basket of goods and services. It is a key indicator of inflation and cost of living.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
The CPI-U is a widely-used metric for tracking price movements across the economy. It reflects the spending patterns of all urban consumers, including wage earners and the self-employed. Policymakers and analysts closely monitor the CPI to understand inflationary pressures and the overall state of the economy.
Methodology
The Bureau of Labor Statistics collects data on prices from a sample of retail and service establishments and calculates the CPI-U based on this survey data.
Historical Context
The CPI-U is a critical input for adjusting government benefits, setting monetary policy, and negotiating contracts.
Key Facts
- The CPI-U is published monthly by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- It covers about 93% of the total U.S. population.
- The CPI-U is calculated using a fixed market basket of goods and services.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Not Seasonally Adjusted Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) measures changes in the prices paid by urban consumers for a representative basket of goods and services.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: The CPI-U is a key indicator of inflation and the overall cost of living, making it crucial for policymakers, businesses, and consumers to understand economic conditions.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The Bureau of Labor Statistics collects price data from a sample of retail and service establishments and calculates the CPI-U based on this survey data.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: The CPI-U is used to adjust government benefits, set monetary policy, and negotiate contracts, making it a critical input for economic decision-making.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The CPI-U is published monthly, with a typical release lag of about two weeks after the end of the reference month.
Related Trends
Consumer Price Index for All Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers: Nonalcoholic Beverages and Beverage Materials in U.S. City Average
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Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Fats and Oils in U.S. City Average
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Chained Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Food in U.S. City Average
SUUR0000SAF1
Consumer Price Index for All Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers: Alcoholic Beverages in U.S. City Average
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Consumer Price Index for All Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers: Other Foods in U.S. City Average
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Chained Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Food at Home in U.S. City Average
SUUR0000SAF11
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Not Seasonally Adjusted (CPIUFDNS), retrieved from FRED.